Mac mini startup problem. Blank desktop - no dock/icons.
But i can see the clock, wifi symbol, etc.... and i can move the cursor.
Mac mini, Mac OS X (10.5.8)
Boot from install disk and repair the startup disk via Disk Utility
41 replies
When i put in the install disk, the mac mini ejects it every time.
Also target mode is not working. (tried a firewire connection to another mac)
is there anything else i can try? Really need to get at the info on mac mini..!
When is the last time you checked that the optical drive worked?
What happens when you try to boot in Target mode? What shows on the screen?
Try booting in safe mode
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1564
Do you have a G4 Mini?
Thanks for reply.
Haven't used the optical drive normally for a year or 2
I've tried safe mode, single-user mode, reset PRAM, etc.....no luck!
When i turn on computer, it chimes as normal, it shows apple symbol,
then it goes to desktop, but no icons etc load.
Just the clock, which is correct, and other icons, wifi etc, show in top rhs of screen.
The last thing that happened before this situation started,
was Chrome and Photoshop quit unexpectledly
What happens if boot in target mode?
Is it a G4 (as aoposed to Intel) Mini?
Its an intel G4 - i think 2011 model
nothing happens if i try target mode. it doesn't mount on my other mac
In Target mode what shows on the problems Mini's screen?
This does not make sense?
Its an intel G4 - i think 2011 model
How to identify Mac mini models
Also:
Nothing shows on mac mini screen in target mode.... no symbol, nothing.
Sorry, its a 2007 mac mini - 1.83GHz
Are you usng a wired keybord to start in Target Disk mode?
What does not make sense is that you can boot via HD to a partial screen but not boot to Target Disk mode
yeah, none of it makes sense to me.
I connected with firewire to a macbook pro, held down 'T' on the mac mini wireless keyboard but no luck...
Can you try a wired keyboard? Sometimes the wireless ones do not work.
Next I would make an appointment at the Genius Bar of an Apple store. It is free.
the keyboard is working because if i startup without a USB mouse, the screen asks me where is the mouse.
And when i plug it in, the prompt disappears...
I am thousands of miles from an Apple store.
Can you try a wired KB? Sometimes wifi one do not work during special startups, they get identified too late.
i will try that later today, if i can find one.
Thanks for your help
Mac mini startup problem. Blank desktop - no dock/icons.